decomposers

1 ANSWERS

1. GiGi
   

   Bacteria:
   Bacteria are the smallest living organisms and the most numerous of decomposers; they make up 90% of the billions of microorganisms typically found in a gram of soil.
   Bacterial decomposers are grouped by the temperature ranges in which they work the best. Psychrophilic bacteria are a group of bacteria species that work in the lowest temperature range (-20-13°C, 0°-55°F). Mesophilic bacteria (0-40°C, 32-104°F) predominate in nature, and are responsible for most of the decomposition. Thermophilic bacteria are more active in concentrated waste piles where the heat can get up above 40°C (104°F).
   
   Fungi:
   Fungi is the name for a family of simple organisms which includes molds and yeasts. Next to bacteria, fungi are the most efficient decomposer organisms. Molds can grow both as unseen filaments and as gray or white fuzzy colonies on the surface.
   Fungi are important because they break down tough debris, enabling bacteria to continue the decomposition process once most of the cellulose has been exhausted. They spread and grow vigorously by producing many cells and filaments, and they can attack organic residues that are too dry or acidic for bacterial decomposition.
   
   Actinomycetes:
   Soil’s "earthy" smell is caused by actinomycetes. Actinomycetes are a form of fungi-like bacteria that form long filaments resembling spider webs stretching through the humus.
   Actinomycetes are the primary decomposers of tough plant tissues like bark, paper and stems. They are especially effective at softening up tough materials, such as cellulose, chitin, and lignin.

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